Steelers head coach calls for more safety measures in South Side after Steeler stabbed

PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin had some bold remarks Monday about the safety of Pittsburgh’s South Side after Steelers offensive tackle Mike Adams who was stabbed on Saturday in the 1700 block of East Carson Street.

"It goes beyond the team. I just think as members of this community, we need to recognize some things going on on the South Side that make it a dangerous place, particularly after hours," said Tomlin. "Hopefully, as a community, we'll take the steps necessary to assure this doesn't happen to anyone whether it’s a Pittsburgh Steeler or not."

Tomlin was not alone in his displeasure over the violence on South Side. President of the South Side Bar and Restaurant Association, Mike Papariella, said city officials promised additional patrols.

"You’re not satisfied with the police patrols right now? I'm satisfied with what the
Pittsburgh people want to offer, but it seems like people above, coming from the mayor’s office, maybe Director Huss, have put certain limitations on what city police do," said Papariella.

Papariella called the Adams stabbing that required surgery a rare occurrence.

Channel 11’s Alan Jennings discovered that other Steelers have also been attacked on the South Side.

Former Steeler Mike Wallace said he told police he was robbed at gunpoint when a hooded criminal in a grey Chevy Cavalier pulled up alongside him as he walked on South 18th Street and jumped out of the car with a silver handgun.

Wallace, who was walking with defensive back Keenan Lewis, lost two cellphones, while Lewis had his wallet stolen that contained $450 and all his credit cards.

Those who live in South Side, like Curt Cignetti, call it part of the culture.

"In the past couple years, it’s really grown economically. You’re going to see more criminals come down here to take advantage of local residents who have more disposable income with fatter wallets," said Cignetti.

As for Adams, who was expected to start this season, Tomlin is focused on getting him ready for training camp.

"Obviously, the next step for him is just getting out of the hospital. We expect that to come within the next 24 hours, and he will proceed from there," said Tomlin.